Global Talent Scheme to continue as officials review program

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Australia will extend the year-long pilot of the Global Talent Scheme while officials conduct a review of the program’s effectiveness.

What does the change mean? Qualifying sponsors may continue to use the Global Talent Scheme while the review is undertaken. The program has not been widely used, however, and other visa routes may be preferable.

• Implementation time frame: Ongoing.
• Visas/permits affected: Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482) visas – Global Talent Scheme.
• Who is affected: Accredited sponsors that meet the qualifying criteria; start-up companies in STEM (science, technology, engineering or mathematics) fields that meet the qualifying criteria.
• Next steps: Officials are expected to begin a review after June 30, when the pilot was initially set to expire.

Background: Australia launched the Global Talent Scheme last year as a way to help bring high-skilled foreign nationals to the country. The program was designed to allow accredited sponsors and start-ups to benefit from a simplified application process, faster processing and four-year TSS visas. The program was not widely used in the last year, however, in part because of complex eligibility criteria. The pilot, which was initially set to end on June 30, will now be extended while the review is completed.

Analysis & Comments: While the Global Talent Scheme was designed to make it easier for qualifying companies to bring high-skilled workers to Australia, the program has not been widely used. Companies sponsoring foreign workers are encouraged to work with Deloitte to determine the best visa options for their employees.

Source: Deloitte LLP. Deloitte LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC303675 and its registered office at 1 New Street Square, London EC4A 3HQ, United Kingdom.